Los Angeles acquired quarterback Karl Sweetan from New…
Los Angeles acquired quarterback Karl Sweetan from New Orleans for the 1971 fourth-round pick later used on Don Morrison. Sweetan served as a reserve for two Rams seasons, appearing in 11 games and throwing only 26 regular-season passes. Morrison became a long-term Saints starting tackle, starting 92 games for New Orleans from 1971 through 1977. The Rams received modest backup value while surrendering the asset that produced a foundational lineman.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- player Karl Sweetan
New Orleans Saints Received
- pick 1971 fourth round pick (#98-Don Morrison)
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
New Orleans traded quarterback Karl Sweetan to Los Angeles on June 20, 1969 for a 1971 fourth-round draft choice. Historical draft records identify that pick as No. 98 overall, which the Saints used on offensive tackle Don Morrison. This is a particularly useful old trade to evaluate because both sides' post-deal outcomes are well documented and the acquired selection can be followed directly to the player New Orleans drafted.
What Los Angeles Got
Sweetan gave the Rams veteran quarterback depth behind Roman Gabriel. His role was small. He appeared in five games in 1969, completing five of 13 passes for 101 yards and one touchdown. In 1970 he appeared in six games, completing six of 13 passes for 81 yards and another touchdown. He never started a regular-season game for Los Angeles. The Rams received legitimate backup insurance, but the total production was limited to 26 pass attempts across two seasons.
What New Orleans Got
Morrison became an immediate and durable starter. He was selected 98th overall in 1971 and started all 14 games as a rookie at left tackle. The Saints' own history credits him with 94 games and 92 starts for New Orleans from 1971 through 1977. His broader NFL career reached 123 games and 95 starts. That is an exceptional return from a fourth-round selection, especially when the asset was acquired for a reserve quarterback who had already struggled in New Orleans.
Final Verdict
New Orleans wins decisively. The Saints turned Sweetan into a fourth-round pick and then into seven seasons of starting offensive-line value. Los Angeles received only lightly used backup quarterback production. An A for New Orleans reflects the quality and duration of Morrison's contribution. The Rams receive a C- because Sweetan did provide some depth, but the opportunity cost became enormous once the surrendered pick developed into a long-term Saints starter.